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Living in Athens

9K views 9 replies 5 participants last post by  DavidFontaine 
#1 ·
Hi everyone,

This is my first time on your site. I have applied to study a masters program in Athens. I wanted to ask about the cost of living. I have read that the average wage is around 800 euros a month. I am going to be living on savings as I don't expect to find a job there. What is a comfortable amount to live off per month? I was thinking about 1000 euros per month but I wanted to hear your thoughts. Thank you!
 
#3 ·
It depends on what standard of living you want. If you're on your own you can get an undesirable apartment in an undesirable area for about 350. Living costs are very high though. Heating the house in winter, unless it has natural gas (fisiko aereo) will cost loads. Supermarket shopping can be expensive as well.

Make sure you get an apartment where the landlord does not live in the apartment building. Greek landlord are generally extremely awkward people who have never worked a day in their lives and just got the building handed to them by parents. They'll be knocking at your door making your life difficult every week.

Also, be aware that Athens, apart from the wealthiest areas, is an absolute dump. The beaches, even the private ones, are not nice places to be either unless you like trash and cigarette butts.

After living here for so long I can honestly say Greece is a place for vacations, not for living. Most expats I meet here last a year before becoming extremely disillusioned with the place. Think very carefully.
 
#5 ·
Honestly, don't do it. I guarantee you will regret it. It's a dump, the people are extremely unpleasant, nationalistic and arrogant and you will struggle to do even the most simple things! I've lived here for 5 years - anyone who tells you it's anything but awful is either Greek or just knows vacations on the islands.
 
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